CWPCo Announces 2025 Maintenance Plan for DuBay Dam and Lake
Level Adjustments
Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin – August 29, 2024 – Consolidated Water Power Company (CWPCo),
the owner and operator of five hydroelectric dams on the Wisconsin River, has announced a significant
maintenance project scheduled for 2025 at its northernmost DuBay dam near Knowlton, WI. This project,
which involves replacing the entire walkway above the dam's gates, will impact water levels in Lake
DuBay throughout 2025.
Inspection Findings and Planned Repairs
The DuBay dam is operated under a federal license from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
(FERC) and undergoes rigorous inspections to ensure safety and operational integrity. After routine
inspections in April 2024, and subsequent evaluations by an engineering firm specialized in dam safety,
some weathered steel was discovered in the walkway support structure.
“In response to these findings, we successfully completed necessary temporary repairs to the walkway
support structure this summer,” said CWPCo Power Director Martin Burkhardt. “A complete replacement
of the walkway is planned for 2025 and is expected to last the entire year. The design plans are being
finalized and must receive FERC approval before construction begins. The project timeline depends on
this approval, and any delays will be communicated to the public."
Lake Level Management During Construction
To ensure the safety and efficiency of the repairs, CWPCo will control and maintain the headwater
elevation at the dam at 1114.30 feet, with a variance of approximately +/- 0.3 feet. This will result in the
lake level being approximately 6-8 inches lower than what residents and boaters on Lake DuBay are
accustomed to, mirroring the levels observed during the 2024 temporary repairs.
Under its FERC Operating License, CWPCo is authorized to manage the headwater elevation within a
range of 1.5 feet (1113.70 to 1115.20 feet). While the company typically maintains a headwater elevation
around 1114.80 feet during the summer and fall, the lower level will be sustained for the entire 2025
boating season, which runs from May through November.
CWPCo reserves the right to adjust the headwater elevation within the licensed limits if necessary to
ensure the safe passage of river flows or for other operational requirements.
Advance Notice for Residents
Considering these necessary adjustments, CWPCo is providing this advance notice to allow residents
ample time to prepare for the lower lake levels. Property owners with docks, lifts, and other waterfront
equipment are advised to consider these changes when preparing for the winter season.
During the construction period, the company does not plan to issue regular public updates on the repair
status. However, it will keep the DuBay Property Owners Association leadership, the Wisconsin
Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), and local township officials informed of any significant
developments.
CWPCo encourages Lake DuBay residents with riparian ownership to consider shoreline management
activities during this period of lower lake elevations. Owners should check with the WDNR, county or
local municipalities about required permits before starting any work.
“We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all residents and lake users as we undertake this
essential maintenance work to ensure the continued safety and reliability of our DuBay hydroelectric
operations,” said Burkhardt.
For further information, please contact:
Martin Burkhardt, martin.burkhardt@billerud.com, 715-422-3073
Shawn Hall, shawn.hall@billerud.com, 937-242-9373
About Consolidated Water Power Company (CWPCo)
CWPCo owns and operates five hydroelectric projects along 33 miles of the Wisconsin River in
central Wisconsin located near Knowlton, and in Stevens Point, Whiting, Biron and Wisconsin Rapids.
2025 Maintenance Plan for DuBay Dam and Lake Level Adjustments